By: Margaret Littman
It’s time. After nearly two years of changes in the way in which we could and would gather, it’s time to spend long hours around a table, sharing snacks and stories.
That’s the idea behind Union Tavern, Bobby Nashville’s first-floor dinner restaurant. In fact, it is even in its name. In Latin, the root for “union” or “unite” comes from the word for “one.” And the idea behind Union Tavern is the connection that allows us to come together as one.
The restaurant and its menu—which changes based on the availability of local ingredients—was created under the guidance of award-winning chef Ryan Poli. Poli, who helmed the kitchen as at Nashville’s The Catbird Seat, also spent time at French Laundry in California, El Celler de Can Roca in Spain, and Noma Tokyo. These experiences help him craft international influences with Tennessee ingredients.
Dishes on the menu may include:
Bear Creek Farm Steak of the Week (Potato Pave, Mushrooms, Red Wine Sauce)
Halibut a la Plancha (Romesco, Confit Potatoes, Rapini, Preserved Lemon)
Hamachi Crudo (Yuzo Dressing, Lime Quats, Lime Zest, Shiso Leaves, Maldon Salt)
**Puttanesco Tagliatelle **(Iberico Ham, Capers, Fried Breadcrumbs, Olives)
Spice Rubbed Pork Ribs (Shaved Cabbage, Radish, Cilantro Puree)
**Basque Cheesecake **(Seasonal Puree)
Poli is working with his favorite farmers and ranchers to source the foods for the restaurant. So, if rapini, for example, is unavailable one week, he won’t have it shipped in from across the country. Instead, he’ll create with something else.
The wine list and cocktail menu are equally intentional curated and creative, with spins on classics, such as the King’s Day (Gray Whale Gin, St. Germaine, Green Chartreuse, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Orange Bitters) and the San Juan (Licor 42, Espresso, Citrus Oil).
Check back here or talk to staff at the hotel for information about pop-up events with other local chefs.
Union Tavern is the second restaurant Poli has overhauled for Bobby Nashville; the first being the breakfast and lunch spot Café at Bobby. Union Tavern is open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday. Union Tavern’s bar also is open for service on Monday and Tuesday evenings. Reservations are available to book online at Tock or talk to hotel staff about saving a table for you so that you can gather again.
